These charts track the health of the local housing market. Home sales and prices tend to be seasonal, but these charts show the long-term trend compared with a year earlier. Foreclosures also affect the number of homes on the market and put downward pressure on prices. Sources: Real Estate Information Network, foreclosure information from RealtyTrac.

The chart below reflects the price of a regular gallon of gasoline in Hampton Roads, Virginia and the United States on the first of each month. Source: AAA. (Related: Gas prices by state)

The port of Hampton Roads is the nation's fifth-largest container port, third on the East Coast behind New York/New Jersey and Savannah, Ga. There are container terminals in Norfolk, Portsmouth and Newport News. It is the nation’s largest coal port, with a terminal in Norfolk and two in Newport News. Source: Virginia Port Authority and Virginia Maritime Association

The chart below shows unemployment rates in Hampton Roads, Virginia and the United States over the past two years. Source: Virginia Employment Commission. (Related: state-by-state rates)

These charts show the number of people flying in and out of Norfolk International Airport and the amount of cargo in and out. Airport data reflect the confidence of business and personal travelers. Source: Norfolk Airport Authority

The state tracks prices of a basket of groceries based on 40 staple items, from peaches to peanut butter, in Hampton Roads. When grocery prices rise, pocketbooks are being pinched.

Source: Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Retail sales, as a barometer of consumer spending, are among the top indicators of economic health. The state releases sales data quarterly, based on the 5 percent sales tax paid by businesses. Click here to see an interactive graphic of consumer confidence in the United States.

These charts reflect the number of new and used cars registered in Hampton Roads, typically sold a month before. Click here to view an interactive of automobiles sold in the United States. Source: AutoCount